In particle separation applications, conventional syringe pumps are widely used to supply fluid flow into microchannels at a controlled flow rate. However, their bulky structures lack the development of compact particle separation systems which is essential for all LoC (Lab on a Chip) systems. In this study, we designed and fabricated a peristaltic micropump which can be integrated into an inertial particle separation microchannel at the same layer with a compact design. Since inertial particle separation can be done without a need for an external force field, we aimed to develop a μTAS (Micro Total Analysis Systems) system which is able to realize particle separation in an integrated micropump-microchannel system. The circular micropump channel made of two PDMS layers and its width is optimized. The 3D-Printed micropump is actuated by a stepper motor, and the rate of pumped fluid is monitored by an LCD screen connected and programmed to system according to the system parameters. Micropump has a theoretical capacity of supplying particle carrying fluid at the flow rate of 25.47 ml/min when the stepper motor is rotated at 330 rpm.
Inertial particle separation in helical channels: A calibrated numerical analysis
